Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method, comprising: receiving, by an apparatus, at least one out of (i) a call notification from a smartphone that is conveyed over a short-range wireless communication link of the apparatus, and (ii) a user voice command for initiating a call by the smartphone, the user voice command is detected by a microphone array of the apparatus; generating, a connection establishment command that once received by a voice-controlled digital assistant will cause the voice-controlled digital assistant to establish a short-range wireless communication connection with the apparatus; wherein the voice controlled digital assistant does not belong to the apparatus; outputting the connection establishment commands via a speaker of the apparatus; performing a speech-based user recognition process by a speech recognition module of the apparatus; following a successful speech-based user recognition process and a successful establishment of the short-range wireless communication connection with the voice-controlled digital assistant, participating in a call by exchanging audio conveying signals between the smartphone and the voice-controlled digital assistant.
This invention relates to a system for facilitating voice-controlled calls between a smartphone and a voice-controlled digital assistant using a separate apparatus. The problem addressed is the need for seamless integration between a smartphone and a voice-controlled digital assistant, such as a smart speaker, to initiate and participate in calls without direct user interaction with either device. The apparatus receives either a call notification from a smartphone via a short-range wireless communication link or a user voice command detected by its microphone array. Upon receiving the input, the apparatus generates a connection establishment command that, when played through its speaker, instructs a nearby voice-controlled digital assistant to establish a short-range wireless communication connection with the apparatus. The digital assistant does not belong to the apparatus but is a separate device. The apparatus then performs a speech-based user recognition process to verify the user's identity. Once both the user recognition and the short-range wireless connection are successfully established, the apparatus enables call participation by exchanging audio signals between the smartphone and the digital assistant. This allows the user to initiate and manage calls through voice commands while leveraging the audio capabilities of the digital assistant. The system enhances convenience by reducing the need for manual device interaction.
2. The method according to claim 1 wherein the performing of the speech-based user recognition process is performed on the user voice command.
The invention relates to speech-based user recognition systems, specifically improving the accuracy and efficiency of identifying users through voice commands. The problem addressed is the need for reliable user authentication in voice-controlled systems, where background noise, accents, or similar voice patterns can lead to misidentification. The solution involves performing a speech-based user recognition process directly on the user's voice command, rather than requiring a separate authentication step. This eliminates the need for users to repeat commands or provide additional verification, streamlining the interaction. The system analyzes the voice command itself to extract biometric and acoustic features for user identification, ensuring seamless and secure access. By integrating recognition into the command processing, the method reduces latency and improves user experience while maintaining security. The approach is particularly useful in smart home devices, virtual assistants, and other voice-activated systems where quick and accurate authentication is critical. The invention enhances existing voice recognition technologies by leveraging the primary command input for dual purposes—executing the command and verifying the user—without compromising performance or requiring additional hardware. This method ensures robust user identification while minimizing disruptions in the user workflow.
3. The method according to claim 1 wherein the performing of the speech-based user recognition process is performed on a processed user voice command, the processed user voice command is generated by applying a far field process for improving far field speech intelligibility.
This invention relates to speech-based user recognition systems, particularly for improving the accuracy of voice recognition in far-field environments where background noise and distance from the microphone can degrade speech intelligibility. The method involves processing a user's voice command to enhance its clarity before performing user recognition. The processing includes a far-field enhancement technique that compensates for acoustic distortions caused by distance, reverberation, or ambient noise, ensuring that the voice command is more accurately interpreted by the recognition system. This preprocessing step helps mitigate errors in user identification, especially in scenarios where the user is speaking from a distance or in noisy environments. The far-field processing may involve noise suppression, beamforming, or other signal enhancement methods to improve the signal-to-noise ratio of the captured voice command. By applying this preprocessing, the system achieves more reliable user authentication and command execution, even under challenging acoustic conditions. The invention is particularly useful in smart home devices, virtual assistants, and other voice-activated systems where far-field speech recognition is critical.
4. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the call notification is a call reception notification regarding of a reception of a call by the smartphone.
A method for managing call notifications on a smartphone addresses the problem of users missing important calls due to delayed or missed notifications. The method involves detecting a call reception event on the smartphone and generating a call reception notification to alert the user. The notification is designed to be highly visible and attention-grabbing, ensuring the user is promptly aware of the incoming call. The method may include additional features such as prioritizing notifications based on caller identity, adjusting notification settings dynamically, or integrating with other smartphone functions to enhance user awareness. The goal is to minimize missed calls by improving the reliability and effectiveness of call notifications. The method may also include mechanisms to reduce false positives or unnecessary interruptions, ensuring notifications are both timely and relevant. By optimizing the notification process, the method enhances user experience and communication efficiency.
5. The method according to claim 4 , comprising generating, by the apparatus, a call reception message that once received by the voice-controlled digital assistant will cause the voice-controlled digital assistant to output an audio call reception message indicative of the reception of the call by the smartphone; and short-range wirelessly sending the call reception message from the apparatus to the voice-controlled digital assistant.
This invention relates to a system for integrating voice-controlled digital assistants with smartphones to enhance call notifications. The problem addressed is the lack of seamless audio feedback when a smartphone receives a call, particularly in scenarios where the user relies on a voice-controlled digital assistant for notifications. The solution involves an apparatus that generates a call reception message upon detecting an incoming call to the smartphone. This message, when received by the voice-controlled digital assistant, triggers an audio notification indicating the call reception. The apparatus then transmits this message to the digital assistant via short-range wireless communication, such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. The system ensures that the user receives immediate and clear audio feedback about incoming calls through their digital assistant, improving accessibility and convenience. The apparatus may also include features like call handling, such as answering or rejecting calls, and may interact with the digital assistant to provide additional call-related information, such as caller identification. The invention aims to bridge the gap between smartphones and digital assistants, providing a unified and user-friendly notification experience.
6. The method according to claim 5 wherein the call reception message comprises an identification of a user associated with the smartphone.
A method for handling call reception in a smartphone system addresses the challenge of efficiently managing incoming calls by incorporating user identification data. The system processes a call reception message that includes an identification of the user associated with the smartphone. This identification allows the system to customize call handling based on user-specific preferences, permissions, or contextual data. The method may involve verifying the user's identity before processing the call, ensuring secure and personalized call management. Additionally, the system may integrate with other features, such as call filtering, call forwarding, or user authentication, to enhance functionality. By associating the call reception message with a specific user, the method enables more intelligent and adaptive call processing, improving user experience and security. The approach is particularly useful in multi-user or shared device scenarios where distinguishing between users is critical for proper call handling. The method ensures that incoming calls are routed or managed according to the identified user's settings, reducing errors and improving efficiency.
7. The method according to claim 5 comprises performing the speech-based user recognition process within a time window that starts at when short-range wirelessly sending the call reception message.
This invention relates to a system for securely authenticating a user via speech recognition during a call setup process. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and secure user verification in communication systems, particularly when establishing a call, to prevent unauthorized access. The system involves a mobile device that initiates a call to a target device and sends a call reception message via short-range wireless communication, such as Bluetooth or NFC. Upon receiving this message, the target device prompts the user to provide a speech sample. The system then performs a speech-based user recognition process within a predefined time window starting from the moment the call reception message is sent. This ensures that the authentication occurs promptly and in close temporal proximity to the call initiation, enhancing security by reducing the risk of interception or replay attacks. The speech recognition process involves comparing the user's speech sample against stored voice biometric data to verify identity. If authentication is successful, the call proceeds; otherwise, it is blocked. The system may also include additional security measures, such as encrypting the call reception message and using secure communication channels to transmit authentication data. The invention aims to provide a seamless yet robust authentication mechanism for call setup, balancing usability and security.
8. The method according to claim 7 comprising generating a disconnect message when failing to detect a response from the user during the time window; wherein the disconnect message once received by the voice-controlled digital assistant will cause the voice-controlled digital assistant to terminate short-range wireless connection with the apparatus.
This invention relates to voice-controlled digital assistants and their interaction with external apparatuses via short-range wireless connections. The problem addressed is ensuring reliable and timely disconnection when a user fails to respond within a specified time window, preventing unnecessary power consumption and maintaining system efficiency. The method involves monitoring for a user response during a predefined time window after initiating a voice-controlled interaction. If no response is detected within this window, a disconnect message is automatically generated. This message, when received by the voice-controlled digital assistant, triggers the termination of the short-range wireless connection with the apparatus. The apparatus may be a wearable device, smart home appliance, or other peripheral communicating with the assistant. The time window is set based on expected response times for the specific interaction, ensuring responsiveness without excessive delays. The disconnect message is formatted to be recognized by the assistant's protocol, ensuring seamless disconnection. This method improves energy efficiency and system reliability by avoiding prolonged inactive connections.
9. The method according to claim 4 comprising detecting a user generated request to terminate the call; and generating a disconnect message in response to the detection of the user generated request to terminate the call; wherein the disconnect message once received by the voice-controlled digital assistant will cause the voice-controlled digital assistant to terminate short-range wireless connection with the apparatus.
This invention relates to voice-controlled digital assistants and methods for managing short-range wireless connections, particularly in scenarios where a user initiates a call termination request. The problem addressed is ensuring seamless and secure disconnection between a voice-controlled digital assistant and an associated apparatus, such as a smartphone or other device, when a user ends a call. The method involves detecting a user-generated request to terminate a call, such as a voice command or button press, and generating a disconnect message in response. Upon receiving this message, the voice-controlled digital assistant terminates its short-range wireless connection with the apparatus, preventing unauthorized access or unintended data transfer. The method may also include establishing the initial connection, authenticating the user, and maintaining the connection during the call. The invention ensures that the disconnection process is automated and reliable, enhancing user privacy and security. The technology is applicable in smart home systems, wearable devices, and other environments where voice-controlled assistants interact with external devices via short-range wireless protocols like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
10. The method according to claim 4 comprising detecting a caller generated request to terminate the call; and generating a disconnect message in response to the detection of the caller generated request to terminate the call; wherein the disconnect message once received by the voice-controlled digital assistant will cause the voice-controlled digital assistant to terminate short-range wireless connection with the apparatus.
This invention relates to voice-controlled digital assistants and their interaction with external devices via short-range wireless connections. The problem addressed is ensuring proper termination of such connections when a user ends a call, preventing lingering connections that may drain power or cause security risks. The method involves a voice-controlled digital assistant managing a short-range wireless connection with an apparatus, such as a headset or speaker. When a user initiates a call, the assistant establishes the connection to facilitate audio transmission. During the call, the system monitors for a user-generated request to terminate the call, such as a hang-up command or button press. Upon detecting this request, the assistant generates a disconnect message. This message, when received by the connected apparatus, triggers the termination of the short-range wireless connection, ensuring no residual connection remains active. The method ensures efficient resource management and security by automatically disconnecting when the call ends, avoiding unnecessary power consumption or potential vulnerabilities.
11. The method according to claim 4 comprising short-range wirelessly receiving a waiting call indication from the smartphone; and generating in response to the waiting call indication, a call reception message that once received by the voice-controlled digital assistant will cause the voice-controlled digital assistant to output an audio waiting call message indicative of the reception of a waiting call by the smartphone.
This invention relates to a method for integrating a smartphone with a voice-controlled digital assistant to manage incoming calls. The problem addressed is the inconvenience of manually checking a smartphone for incoming calls, especially when the device is not immediately accessible. The method involves a smartphone detecting an incoming call and wirelessly transmitting a waiting call indication to a nearby voice-controlled digital assistant. Upon receiving this indication, the digital assistant generates and outputs an audio message informing the user of the incoming call, eliminating the need to physically check the smartphone. The system ensures seamless communication between the devices, enhancing user convenience by providing real-time call notifications through voice output. The method may also include additional steps such as determining the proximity of the smartphone to the digital assistant before transmitting the waiting call indication, ensuring efficient and timely notifications. This approach leverages short-range wireless communication to bridge the gap between mobile devices and voice-controlled assistants, improving user interaction with incoming calls.
12. The method according to claim 1 , comprising detecting a request from the user to transfer a call to another apparatus; and short-range wirelessly communicating the request to the other apparatus and instructing the apparatus to disconnect.
This invention relates to call transfer systems in communication devices, specifically addressing the problem of efficiently transferring calls between devices without manual intervention. The method involves detecting a user's request to transfer an ongoing call from a first device to a second device. Upon detection, the first device wirelessly communicates the transfer request to the second device using short-range wireless communication, such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi Direct. The second device, upon receiving the request, automatically disconnects the call on the first device and establishes the call on the second device. This ensures seamless call handoff without requiring the user to manually disconnect or reconnect the call. The system may also include authentication steps to verify the user's identity before initiating the transfer, ensuring security. The method is particularly useful in scenarios where a user switches between devices, such as moving from a smartphone to a smartwatch or a hands-free car system, while maintaining call continuity. The invention improves user convenience by automating the call transfer process and reducing the risk of dropped calls during transitions.
13. The method according to claim 1 , comprising detecting a request from the user to mute calls; and preventing sending notifications about incoming calls, following the request from the user.
This invention relates to a method for managing call notifications in a communication system. The problem addressed is the disruption caused by incoming call notifications, particularly when a user does not wish to be disturbed. The method provides a way for users to selectively mute call notifications while still allowing other communication functions to operate normally. The method involves detecting a user request to mute incoming call notifications. Once the request is received, the system prevents the transmission of notifications for incoming calls. This ensures that the user is not disturbed by call alerts while still allowing other communication features, such as messages or status updates, to function as usual. The muting feature can be toggled on or off based on user preference, providing flexibility in managing notifications. The method may also include additional steps such as storing the user's muting preference, applying the mute setting across multiple devices, or providing visual indicators to show that call notifications are muted. This ensures a seamless and consistent user experience. The solution is particularly useful in environments where minimizing distractions is important, such as during meetings, work hours, or personal downtime.
14. The method according to claim 1 , comprising participating in a selection process for selecting an apparatus, out of a group of apparatus, that will respond to a user command; wherein the group comprises the apparatus and at least one other apparatus.
This invention relates to a method for selecting an apparatus from a group of apparatuses to respond to a user command. The problem addressed is efficiently determining which device in a network or system should execute a user command when multiple devices are available. The method involves a selection process where an apparatus evaluates its suitability to respond to a user command. The apparatus assesses its own capabilities, such as processing power, availability, or relevance to the command, and compares them against the capabilities of at least one other apparatus in the group. The selection process may involve communication between the apparatus and the other apparatuses to exchange status information, such as load, priority, or compatibility with the command. Based on this evaluation, the apparatus either selects itself or another apparatus to execute the command. The method ensures that the most appropriate device handles the command, improving efficiency and responsiveness in multi-device environments. The apparatus may use predefined criteria, such as proximity to the user, current workload, or specialized functionality, to determine the best responder. The selection process may also involve negotiation or voting among the devices to reach a consensus. This approach is useful in smart home systems, industrial automation, or distributed computing environments where multiple devices must coordinate to fulfill user requests. The method optimizes resource allocation and reduces conflicts in command execution.
15. The method according to claim 14 , wherein the selection process is based on strength of reception of the user command by the members of the group.
This invention relates to a method for selecting a group member to execute a user command in a distributed system, addressing the challenge of efficiently determining the most suitable member to process the command based on communication reliability. The method involves evaluating the strength of reception of the user command by each member of the group, where the strength of reception is determined by factors such as signal quality, latency, or error rates in the communication channel. The member with the strongest reception is then selected to execute the command, ensuring optimal performance and reliability. This approach is particularly useful in systems where multiple devices or nodes are available to perform a task, and the selection must account for varying communication conditions to minimize errors and delays. The method may also include additional criteria for selection, such as processing capacity or availability, to further refine the choice of the executing member. By prioritizing reception strength, the system improves the likelihood of successful command execution and reduces the need for retransmissions or error recovery. This technique is applicable in wireless networks, IoT devices, or any distributed computing environment where reliable command processing is critical.
16. The method according to claim 1 , comprising: short-range wirelessly receiving a request from the smartphone to establish a wireless connection over the Internet with the apparatus; accepting the request; detecting a request of the user, conveyed over the Internet, to establish a connection with the voice-controlled digital assistant; generating, in response to the request of the user, a connection establishment command that once received by the voice-controlled digital assistant will cause the voice-controlled digital assistant to establish a short-range wireless communication connection with the apparatus; and wirelessly relaying audio conveying signals between the smartphone and the voice-controlled digital assistant, following an establishment of the short-range wireless communication connection with the voice-controlled digital assistant.
This invention relates to a system for enabling seamless communication between a smartphone and a voice-controlled digital assistant via an intermediary apparatus. The problem addressed is the lack of direct connectivity between smartphones and voice-controlled digital assistants, which often require separate, cumbersome setup processes. The solution involves an apparatus that acts as a bridge, facilitating short-range wireless communication between the devices. The apparatus receives a request from the smartphone to establish an Internet-based connection. Upon accepting the request, it detects a user's command, transmitted over the Internet, to connect with the voice-controlled digital assistant. In response, the apparatus generates a command that instructs the digital assistant to establish a short-range wireless connection with the apparatus. Once this connection is established, the apparatus relays audio signals between the smartphone and the digital assistant, enabling real-time voice communication. This eliminates the need for manual pairing or additional configuration, streamlining the interaction between the devices. The system ensures low-latency, high-quality audio transmission, enhancing user experience in smart home or IoT environments.
17. The method according to claim 1 , comprising short-range wirelessly communicating with the smartphone using a first short-range wireless communication protocol and short-range wirelessly communicating with the voice-controlled digital assistant using a second short-range wireless communication protocol, wherein the first and second short-range wireless communication protocols are associated with different power consumption of the apparatus.
This invention relates to a method for managing wireless communication in a device that interacts with both a smartphone and a voice-controlled digital assistant. The device is designed to optimize power consumption by using different short-range wireless communication protocols for each interaction. The device communicates with the smartphone using a first short-range wireless protocol, which may be optimized for lower power consumption or higher data throughput, depending on the application. Simultaneously, the device communicates with the voice-controlled digital assistant using a second short-range wireless protocol, which may be optimized for different power or performance characteristics. The selection of protocols ensures that the device efficiently balances power usage while maintaining reliable connectivity with both the smartphone and the digital assistant. This approach is particularly useful in battery-powered devices where minimizing power consumption is critical, such as wearable devices or smart home appliances. The method ensures seamless interaction between the device and the two external systems while adapting to their respective communication requirements.
18. The method according to claim 17 wherein the first and second short-range wireless communication protocols are different classes of BLUETOOTH.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing multiple short-range wireless communication protocols in a device. The problem addressed is the inefficiency and complexity of handling different wireless protocols, particularly different classes of Bluetooth, in a single device. The solution involves a method where a device dynamically selects and switches between at least two different short-range wireless communication protocols, specifically different classes of Bluetooth, to optimize performance, power consumption, or other operational parameters. The method includes detecting a communication event, determining the appropriate protocol for the event, and switching between protocols accordingly. The device may prioritize protocols based on factors such as signal strength, power requirements, or data transfer needs. The invention ensures seamless communication by maintaining protocol compatibility and minimizing disruptions during switching. This approach improves efficiency in devices that need to support multiple Bluetooth classes, such as wearables, IoT devices, or smartphones, by reducing latency and power usage while maintaining reliable connectivity. The method may also include protocol negotiation and fallback mechanisms to handle communication failures or conflicts.
19. The method according to claim 1 , comprising short-range wirelessly communicating using at least one out of BLUETOOTH and WI-FI.
This invention relates to a method for enhancing wireless communication in a networked system, particularly addressing the need for efficient and reliable short-range wireless connectivity. The method involves establishing and managing wireless communication links between devices using at least one of Bluetooth or Wi-Fi protocols. The system includes a plurality of devices, each equipped with wireless communication capabilities, and a central controller that coordinates communication between them. The method ensures seamless connectivity by dynamically selecting the optimal wireless protocol based on factors such as signal strength, data rate requirements, and power consumption. It also includes error detection and correction mechanisms to maintain stable communication links. The method further supports device discovery, pairing, and authentication to ensure secure and efficient communication. By integrating Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, the system provides flexibility in handling different types of data traffic, such as high-speed data transfers via Wi-Fi and low-power, low-latency communication via Bluetooth. The invention is particularly useful in environments where multiple devices need to communicate efficiently, such as smart home systems, industrial automation, and wearable technology. The method improves reliability, reduces latency, and optimizes power usage compared to traditional single-protocol systems.
20. The method according to claim 1 , comprising supplying, by a power supply unit, power to the voice-controlled digital assistant.
A voice-controlled digital assistant system includes a power supply unit that provides electrical power to the device. The system enables users to interact with the assistant through voice commands, allowing for hands-free operation. The power supply unit ensures continuous and stable power delivery to support the assistant's processing, communication, and audio input/output functions. This includes powering microphones for voice capture, speakers for audio output, and a central processing unit for executing commands. The system may also include wireless communication capabilities, such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, to connect to external networks or devices. The power supply unit may be integrated into the assistant or provided as an external source, such as a battery or AC adapter. The assistant processes voice inputs, interprets commands, and performs tasks like playing media, controlling smart home devices, or providing information. The power supply ensures reliable operation during these functions. The system may also include error detection to monitor power levels and alert users when power is low or unstable. This ensures uninterrupted functionality and enhances user experience.
21. The method according to claim 1 , comprising wirelessly supplying, by a power supply unit, power to the voice-controlled digital assistant.
A voice-controlled digital assistant system includes a power supply unit that wirelessly transmits power to the assistant device. The assistant device has a microphone for capturing voice commands, a processor for processing the commands, and a speaker for providing audio responses. The system may also include a network interface for connecting to external services or databases. The wireless power supply unit may use inductive or resonant coupling to transfer power without physical connections. The assistant device may include a power receiver coil that aligns with a transmitter coil in the power supply unit to enable efficient energy transfer. The system may also include a charging status indicator to show power levels and alignment between the transmitter and receiver coils. The assistant device may enter a low-power mode when not in use to conserve energy. The wireless power transmission may be optimized based on the assistant device's power consumption needs, such as adjusting transmission strength during active voice processing or reducing power during idle states. The system may also include safety features to prevent overheating or excessive power transmission. The assistant device may be portable, allowing users to place it in different locations while maintaining wireless power delivery. The system may also include multiple power supply units to ensure continuous power availability. The assistant device may include a battery for temporary power storage during disruptions in wireless power transmission. The system may also include a user interface for adjusting power settings or troubleshooting power-related issues. The wireless power supply unit may be integrated into furniture or mounted on walls for convenient placement. The assistant device may include a pos
22. The method according to claim 1 , comprising supporting, by a structural element of the apparatus, the voice-controlled digital assistant.
A voice-controlled digital assistant system includes an apparatus with a structural element that supports the digital assistant. The apparatus is designed to facilitate user interaction with the digital assistant, which processes voice commands to perform tasks such as information retrieval, device control, or communication. The structural element provides physical support for the digital assistant, ensuring stability and proper positioning during operation. The system may include additional components such as microphones, speakers, and processing units to capture, process, and respond to voice inputs. The digital assistant may be integrated into the apparatus or connected wirelessly, enabling seamless interaction. The structural element may also house power sources, connectivity modules, or user interface elements to enhance functionality. The system is particularly useful in environments where hands-free operation is desired, such as smart homes, vehicles, or workplaces, improving convenience and accessibility for users.
23. The method according to claim 22 , wherein the structural element is a cradle having an upper part that is shaped and sized to support the voice-controlled digital assistant.
A voice-controlled digital assistant is a portable electronic device that responds to voice commands to perform tasks such as playing media, providing information, or controlling smart home devices. A common challenge is securely mounting the device in a fixed position, such as on a desk or dashboard, while ensuring proper orientation and accessibility for voice input and output. Existing solutions often lack stability, adjustability, or fail to accommodate the device's specific dimensions. This invention addresses these issues by providing a cradle designed to securely hold a voice-controlled digital assistant. The cradle includes an upper part that is specifically shaped and sized to support the device, ensuring a stable and precise fit. The design may incorporate features such as non-slip surfaces, adjustable angles, or modular attachments to enhance usability. The cradle may also include additional components, such as a base or mounting mechanism, to allow placement on various surfaces or integration with other systems. The overall structure ensures the device remains in an optimal position for voice interaction while preventing accidental dislodgment. This solution improves user experience by providing a reliable and customizable mounting option for voice-controlled digital assistants.
24. A non-transitory computer readable medium that stores instructions that once executed by an apparatus will cause the apparatus to: receive at least one out of (i) a call notification from a smartphone that is conveyed over a short-range wireless communication link of an apparatus, and (ii) a user voice command for initiating a call by the smartphone, the user voice command is detected by a microphone array of the apparatus; generate, a connection establishment command that once received by a voice-controlled digital assistant will cause the voice-controlled digital assistant to establish a short-range wireless communication connection with the apparatus; wherein the voice controlled digital assistant does not belong to the apparatus; output the connection establishment commands; via a speaker of the apparatus; perform a speech-based user recognition process by a speech recognition module of the apparatus; and following a successful speech-based user recognition process and a successful establishment of the short-range wireless communication connection with the voice-controlled digital assistant, participate in a call by exchanging audio conveying signals between the smartphone and the voice-controlled digital assistant.
This invention relates to a system for facilitating voice-controlled calls between a smartphone and a voice-controlled digital assistant using a separate apparatus. The problem addressed is the need for seamless integration between a smartphone and a voice-controlled digital assistant, such as a smart speaker, to initiate and manage calls without direct user interaction with the smartphone. The apparatus acts as an intermediary, receiving either a call notification from the smartphone via a short-range wireless link or a voice command detected by its microphone array. Upon receiving such input, the apparatus generates and outputs a connection establishment command via its speaker, which the voice-controlled digital assistant receives to establish a short-range wireless connection. The apparatus then performs speech-based user recognition to verify the user. Once both the user recognition and the wireless connection are successfully established, the apparatus enables audio exchange between the smartphone and the voice-controlled digital assistant, allowing the call to proceed. The voice-controlled digital assistant is external to the apparatus, meaning it operates independently but collaborates with the apparatus to facilitate the call. This system enhances convenience by enabling hands-free call initiation and management through voice commands.
Unknown
September 3, 2019
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